Which team has the best chance of winning the FIFA World Cup 2018?

#6 Argentina

Argentina had an extremely disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign, although it did manage to qualify on the last day without the need for a play-off. All thanks to, arguably, the greatest footballer ever, Lionel Messi.

Lionel Messi was directly involved in 47.4% of Argentina's 19 World Cup qualifying goals.7 goals2 assistsHe played 10 out of 18 games. pic.twitter.com/zhTIIypbxN

— Squawka Football (@Squawka) October 11, 2017

Lionel Messi's hattrick on the last day of qualifying against Ecuador was sublime, and a treat to watch. But it created a veneer over the flaws of this Argentine team, which are aplenty. The team with the best attack among the international teams ending up with 19 goals from 18 games (second least, only above Bolivia who scored 16 goals) is a shame. Messi played 10 out of the 18 games, in which the team secured 21 out of their total of 28 points, losing only once. (6W 3D 1L) The rest of the games were a drag, with Argentina struggling for goals and innovative attacks. The defence comprising of Otamendi, Mascherano, Mercado and Marcos Acuna was generally not a letdown, allowing 16 goals in 18 games which is not a very bad show. The 3-0 defeat to Brazil was an exception though, where they were torn apart by Neymar and co. Lucas Biglia in the midfield has been consistent, and has become an integral part of this team. Ever Banega, Angel Di Maria and Enzo Perez are good players in the midfield, but they need to improve drastically for Argentina to win the cup. The attack consists of superstars - Messi, Dybala, Aguero, Icardi, Higuain etc. But they haven't worked together very well so far, with Messi almost always taking the burden of creating as well as scoring the goals. Jorge Sampaoli needs to figure out a way to play Messi, Dybala and Aguero together, which could be devastating for opponents if it works. Argentina have not showed how well they can play in the qualifiers. But, their international showings have been very good in the last few years, being runners-up in the 2014 World Cup and Copa America 2015 and 2016. This is probably the last time Lionel Messi will get a chance to get his hands on the trophy, and with his incredible form and desire, Argentina are always strong contenders to get the trophy.

Defence: 8/10

Midfield: 7/10

Attack: 9/10

Key Players: Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi would be hoping to lift the trophy this time around